The Swedish word "fika" works as both a noun and a verb. In other words, you can fika with friends, or you can join them for a fika.

It's a coffee break, ideally with cinnamon rolls, which makes it sound Old World, but the Urban Dictionary calls it a "phenomenon mostly popular amongst teenagers."

Whatever the generation, fika is a means (excuse?) to connect with people. Swedes grant it almost ritual status -- none of this American grab-and-go, "Text me when you can!" stuff. Fika is about coffee, but also conversation.

Fika also serves as a social safety net for a first meeting that isn't really a date, but could be considered one if things go really well, while letting everyone off the hook if it bombs. Swedish efficiency at its best.

In 2009, coffee roaster Gevalia wanted to set a Swedish record for fikaing. The city of Östersund rose to the occasion, with 3,563 people taking a break together.

Sure, holiday baking traditions are great. But isn't it time to try a new sweet treat this year? The Holiday Cookie Finder has every winning recipe from our annual baking contest from the past 14 years.

It's tempting to drop everything and roam Minnesota to catch all the crimsons and golds at this time of year. But who has time for that? We've found your leaf-peeping match. Just follow our flow chart.